Our top 10 tips for making sure you stay safe whilst surfing and some basic surf etiquette - making for a friendly, fun, surf experience.
1. Never Surf Alone
Never surf alone, always go with a surf buddy, that way you can look out for each other in the water. This rule applies especially in the bigger swells.
2. Know The Waves
Know the waves you are getting in to - take your time getting in, watch the waves, see what they are doing before jumping straight in. If you are not surfing with a surf school, take the time to check the local surf forecast to get a better understanding of the waves and what they may be expected to do - swells, size, tides, winds and currents.
3. Pick A Landmark
Pick a landmark on the beach which can act as your starting point for getting in the water - this way you can easily get a feel for the current conditions.
4. Know Your Surf Limits
This may seem simple but be aware of your surf ability and limits, what size waves you are, and aren't comfortable surfing in and don't try to challenge yourself too early.
5. Wear A Leash
Always wear a leash, ensuring that you don't get separated from your board in the water. Never try to hold on to the leash when going through waves - and the pull of the waves may be stronger than you expect.
6. Know The Surf Rules
It's good to make sure you have an understanding of the surf rules and surfer etiquette in the water. A basic understanding will make sure that you keep yourself and others safe in the water. More information on the basic rules can be found here.
7. If You Fall Cover Your Head
When you fall cover the back of your head with your hands and use your arms to cover your ears and the side of your head.
8. Hold Your Surfboard To The Side
When stepping into the water and starting your entry to the waves, always make sure to keep your surfboard to the side of you - never place the surfboard between you and the oncoming waves as you will risk being hit by your own board.
9. Wear Suncream And Stay Hydrated
Can't emphasise this enough - doing both of these things means you will avoid risk of hideous sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion.
10. Never Drink And Surf
Lastly, this may be a obvious one but we don't want you to drink and drown. It is never a good idea to mix drinking alcohol with surfing - they just don't go safely together.